Stephen A. Smith Gets NABJ's 2026 'Thumbs Down' Award

Stephen A. Smith is on the receiving end of a very different kind of sports award. The National Association of Black Journalists has given the ESPN personality its 2026 “Thumbs Down” Award, citing what the organization describes as a recurring pattern of disparaging commentary toward prominent Black women across sports, politics and media. The award was announced during NABJ’s convention in Atlanta. Smith has since responded publicly, saying he has “shut my mouth for years” and suggesting the recognition has started a new conversation. Read more here!

Stephen A. Smith Gets NABJ's 2026 'Thumbs Down' Award was originally published on myclassixatl.com